Andoni Iraola is a candidate under consideration for Chelsea’s managerial vacancy, according to sources, but pushing for the current Bournemouth boss could spark a head-to-head with Crystal Palace.
Iraola, the 43-year-old Spaniard who will leave his current club at the end of this season, is one of several names being reviewed by Chelsea’s higher-ups after last week’s sacking of Liam Rosenior.
However, Palace are believed to have spoken to Iraola’s camp as they prepare for Oliver Glasner’s own departure this summer, with sources adding they consider him their top choice.
Iraola is not the only name being studied by the Blues. Fulham boss Marco Silva is among the contenders as is former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, who was sacked by Real Madrid in January just six months after joining as head coach from Bayer Leverkusen. Both have experience in English football.
Chelsea intend to name Rosenior’s successor once this season has ended. Sources have insisted they are taking a disciplined approach in identifying the right long-term appointment, adding they are targeting a head coach who is aligned with the club’s vision, can develop their squad and deliver consistent performances and results.
Iraola, who will leave his current club at the end of this season, is one of several names being reviewed by Chelsea’s higher-ups after last week’s sacking of Liam Rosenior
Calum McFarlane, 38, will act as interim until that process is completed and started by leading Chelsea to a significant 1-0 win over Leeds on Sunday which set up an FA Cup final with Manchester City.
Enzo Fernandez scored the game’s only goal while wearing the captain’s armband in what was one of his more impressive performances.
Iraola has impressed while managing in the Premier League. Nearly three years after taking over Bournemouth, he now has them sitting in a European qualification position, and one point above McFarlane’s Chelsea, who have a week to prepare for playing Nottingham Forest next Monday.
Palace will face Shakhtar Donetsk in their Conference League semi-final first leg this Thursday, then travel to take on Iraola’s Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium this weekend.
